Exciting Water Expansion Project Kicks Off in Batesburg-Leesville!

Exciting Water Expansion Project Kicks Off in Batesburg-Leesville!

Batesburg-Leesville, SC – Big news, folks! This past Tuesday, the Joint Municipal Water and Sewer Commission (JMWSC), alongside the Town of Batesburg-Leesville, officially broke ground on a game-changing Water System Expansion Project. The ceremony took place right at the intersection of Augusta Highway and Calks Ferry Road, the very spot where the new booster pump station will rise to meet the water needs of the town.

For those who may not know, Batesburg-Leesville has been under a state Consent Order since 2013. This has been due to concerns regarding water capacity that affect the day-to-day lives of residents. But fear not! The new project, which connects to the JMWSC’s robust water supply, is a part of a Corrective Action Plan aimed at providing a sustainable and high-quality water source for the community. What’s more, this expansion is not just about fixing problems; it’s about laying the groundwork for future economic growth and enhancing infrastructure in western Lexington County!

Let’s Talk Numbers!

As you can imagine, significant projects like this don’t come cheap! The Water Expansion Project has garnered a hefty $20 million from the South Carolina Infrastructure Investment Program, alongside nearly $9 million in low-interest Drinking Water State Revolving Funds. That’s no small change! Representatives from both the South Carolina Rural Infrastructure Authority and the SC Department of Environmental Services were present at the groundbreaking ceremony, underscoring the project’s importance for the entire region.

What’s in the Works?

So, what exactly will this project include? For starters, we’re looking at the construction of a striking 40,000 linear foot pipeline with a diameter of 24 inches. It’s set to run alongside US Highway 1 (Augusta Hwy) from the JMWSC’s current water tank located at Calks Ferry Road, seamlessly connecting to the existing town water systems. And get this—the new pump station will be a powerhouse, capable of pumping 2,500 gallons of water a minute! That’s a lot of water for our community!

But wait, there’s more! This ambitious project will also introduce 23 new fire hydrants along the pipeline route, complete with all the necessary valves and fittings. On the Batesburg-Leesville side, an additional 21,400 feet of a 16-inch line will be installed as well, complete with 33 more fire hydrants. Just imagine how much safer and more efficient our water services will be once it’s all in place!

Community Voices

Mayor Lancer Shull celebrated the groundbreaking, cheering on the collaboration between communities to tackle long-standing issues regarding water services. “This joint project is a great example of how our communities are coming together to resolve long-standing issues, expand clean water services, and improve the quality of life in Lexington County,” he said.

And if that wasn’t enough, Jay Nicholson, the JMWSC’s General Manager and CEO, elaborated on the collaboration’s significance. “It epitomizes Progress Through Cooperation and ensures reliable resources for a sustainable future through the expanded delivery of high-quality drinking water.” What a commitment to our future!

Why It Matters

This isn’t merely about pipes and hydrants; it’s about so much more! The Water System Expansion Project is poised to transform the quality of life for residents while supporting economic development in the region. With cleaner, safer, and more reliable water, Batesburg-Leesville is clearly on a path to a brighter and more sustainable future!

Stay tuned, because there are undoubtedly more exciting updates to come as this project rolls forward!

For further questions or concerns regarding the project, residents can reach out to local authorities who are happy to provide information.